So it came as no surprise perhaps that she left a rough total of $25,000 for the departments in her will, with more to possibly come once her estate is settled. The senior center is also in line for at least $13,000, and the library, where she volunteered, at least $5,000.

"I think Marjorie is saying thank you for all the departments gave to her," Easter said of her client, who died last year at 94. She said Peloquin kept a list of those who helped her, and described the aid provided by firefighters, police, and senior center staff and volunteers.

Peloquin's land is being divided into nine lots for a new subdivision named Peloquin Estates, providing the money for the generosity. So far, the police and fire are each receiving $12,250, the senior center $13,650, the library $5,250 and a police teen drug prevention program $1,750.

Selectmen voted to accept all five gifts.

The board also discussed Town Manager Norman Khumalo's one-year performance review, giving him an "outstanding" mark and citing his passion, commitment and integrity.

"He accomplished a lot in an adverse environment," said R.J. Dourney, selectmen chairman. Khumalo thanked the board, his staff and residents for their support.

In other business, selectmen:

* Voted to move police Detective Scott Van Raalten to an open sergeant's post, continuing a string of department promotions that began when Lt. Richard Flannery was named chief. The department has not yet filled a vacant patrolman's slot.

* Heard an update from Khumalo that Ashland and Hopkinton officials will soon meet to continue discussing a proposed shared fire substation near the planned Legacy Farms development.

* Heard from local Boston Marathon booster Tim Kilduff about a new endeavor to raise money for a painting honoring the seven Hopkinton natives who fought with the Marines on Iwo Jima in World War II, three of whom are still alive. The effort is tied to the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon, with the painting slated for the national Marine Corps museum in Virginia.

(Michael Morton can be reached at 508-626-4338 or mmorton@cnc.com.)

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.